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Apple Music's Partner Program: Revolutionising the Music Industry Through Data

May 13, 2024

Apple Music has recently introduced an ambitious initiative that stands to transform the landscape of the music industry: the "Apple Music Partner Program." This groundbreaking program....

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See Taylor Swift Perform ‘Fortnight,’ ‘But Daddy I Love Him’ at The Eras Tour

May 11, 2024

In a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation, Taylor Swift has once again captivated audiences with the debut of her latest double album, "The Tortured Poets Department...

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Gunna's Resurgence: Decoding the Brilliance of “One of Wun”

May 11, 2024

In the turbulent realm of hip-hop, reputations wield immense power, capable of either propelling an artist to stardom or shackling them to infamy...

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Frank Ocean's Timeless Appeal: Climbing the Charts Again with Hit Album Blonde

May 10, 2024

In the ever-evolving world of music, where new stars emerge and fade with astonishing rapidity, the longevity of an artist in the charts is a testament to their enduring appeal. Frank Ocean...

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DaBaby: From Charlotte to Chart-Topping Sensation

May 10, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, few artists have made as big a splash as DaBaby. Born Jonathan Lyndale Kirk in Charlotte, North Carolina, DaBaby has become synonymous with odd beats...

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"Mr. Brightside": How The Killers' Hit Became a Timeless Anthem Without Ever Topping the Charts

May 10, 2024

If we mention the artist name or the title of the song, it might not ring a bell immediately. But what if we say, "It started out with a kiss, how did it end up like this?" Chances are...

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Ariana Grande Delivers Fairytale Performance at Met Gala

May 10, 2024

Ariana Grande, the 30-year-old pop sensation, enchanted audiences at this year's Met Gala with a performance that perfectly captured the event's theme, "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion."...

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Kendrick vs. Drake: The Diss Track Showdown

May 10, 2024

In the hip-hop world, nothing lights up the scene like a fierce diss track battle between the industry's top artists. Lately, all eyes have been on Kendrick Lamar and Drake as they trade lyrical...

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Metro Boomin Lights Up the Pyramids: A Spectacle of Beats and History

May 10, 2024

On the evenings of April 29 and 30th, the iconic U.S. record producer Metro Boomin appeared in Egypt for his first-ever performance in the region, captivating a massive crowd of 30,000 fans...

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The Journey of Billie Eilish in Contemporary Music

May 10, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music, few artists captivate audiences with the same enigmatic allure as Billie Eilish. With her haunting vocals, genre-defying sound...

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Danny Ocean's Evolution of Latin Music

May 10, 2024

If you haven’t heard of Danny Ocean yet, it's only a matter of time before his soulful beats and melodies capture your attention. Hailing from Venezuela, this singer, songwriter...

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Macklemore Supports Protestors With Pro-Palestine New Song “Hind’s Hall”

May 8, 2024

In the world of music, it's not uncommon for artists to use their platform to address social and political issues close to their hearts. Macklemore, the Grammy-winning rapper known...

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From Scarborough to Stardom: The Weeknd Receives Toronto's Highest Honor Ahead of Homecoming Concerts

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The Weeknd’s meteoric rise from Toronto’s underground music scene to global superstardom came full circle this weekend as Mayor Olivia Chow presented the Grammy-winning artist with the Key to the City a symbolic gesture cementing his legacy as one of Toronto’s most influential cultural ambassadors.

A Hero’s Welcome!

Amid roaring cheers from fans, Abel Tesfaye (born and raised in Scarborough) accepted the honor ahead of his four sold-out After Hours ‘Til Dawn Tour shows at Rogers Centre. “I’m deeply honored,” Tesfaye said in an emotional statement. “Toronto is where I found my voice, and I’m committed to helping the next generation find theirs.”

Mayor Chow didn’t hold back praise: “From Scarborough to the global stage, he’s reshaped modern music while lifting up our communities.” She also declared July 26-27 “Weeknd Weekend” across the city, coinciding with the tour’s first two explosive performances.

More Than Music: The Weeknd’s Toronto Legacy

The ceremony highlighted Tesfaye’s philanthropic ties to his hometown:

  • $500K donation to Scarborough Health Network during COVID-19
  • Support for the University of Toronto’s Ethiopian Studies program
  • Co-founding HXOUSE, a nonprofit incubator for local creatives
  • New pledges to fund Birchmount Park Collegiate (his alma mater) and the Boys & Girls Club of West Scarborough

“He represents the best of our city,” Chow added, nodding to his blend of artistic innovation and grassroots advocacy.

The Homecoming Concerts: Night 1 Highlights

Fans at the July 27 show were treated to a career-spanning setlist, from early mixtape cuts to Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025) hits, plus nostalgic nods to Toronto landmarks. Social media erupted over:

  • A surprise appearance by Toronto rapper Pressa on “Heartless” 
  • A Scarborough-signature roti delivered to him onstage mid-performance
  • A tearful speech: “This city made me believe the impossible was possible.”

What’s Next?

With two more Toronto dates (Aug. 7-8) before the tour’s finale, Tesfaye’s homecoming celebration is far from over. As the After Hours ‘Til Dawn juggernaut supporting his three consecutive Billboard Top 10 albums rolls on, one thing’s clear: The Weeknd’s roots remain as vital as his reach.

From Scarborough to Stardom: The Weeknd Receives Toronto's Highest Honor Ahead of Homecoming Concertsfrom-scarborough-to-stardom-the-weeknd-receives-torontos-highest-honor-ahead-of-homecoming-concertsEbrunida KaradagJul 31, 2025The Weeknd’s meteoric rise from Toronto’s underground music scene to global superstardom came full circle this weekend as Mayor Olivia Chow presented the Grammy-winning artist with the Key to the...